Abstract [en]

Background: In Sweden, 28 179 women were diagnosed with cancer in 2016. The majority of those who receive a cancer diagnosis are cured with treatment, but for some, the disease becomes terminal. Living with terminal cancer involves physical and mental stress that impacts a person’s well-being in a negative way. One of the responsibilities of nurses is to support their patient to increase their quality of life and well-being, as well as to reduce their suffering. Aim: The aim of the study was to highlight the experiences of adult women living with terminal cancer. Method: A qualitative method where the data collection consisted of seven blogs. An analysis of the narratives was used according to Friberg's model. Results: An analysis of the data showed it could be divided into three categories; Illness and life suffering, this is not me, and finally It is for you that I keep on living. Based on these categories, seven subcategories were created. Conclusion: Living with terminal cancer caused major life changes for the women. Feelings of fear and uncertainty related to the course of the illness was constantly present with them. The support of relatives motivated women to fight to live for as long as possible. Nurses can support these group of patients by increasing their understanding of the circumstances these women go through.